The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) issued a statement Thursday evening acknowledging that the presence of US military refueling aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport is creating an unusual operational strain and a 'domino effect' on flight schedules. The IAA said it is working to minimize cancellations and apologized for delays, which are exacerbated by the peak summer travel season.
The IAA's statement Thursday evening marks the latest official acknowledgment of the ongoing logistical challenges at Israel's main international airport. The authority emphasized that its employees are working around the clock to maintain flight continuity and avoid cancellations, but acknowledged that the presence of the refueling aircraft creates a 'domino effect' on ground operations. The warning comes as the airport is operating at record summer capacity.
As The Zioneer has reported, the crisis stems from a shortage of fuel trucks and parking space, dating back to the stationing of US military aircraft at the airport in June. The IAA's director-general previously warned that 100,000 July tickets were at risk, and that additional fuel trucks could force 5,000 daily cancellations. The current statement did not provide new figures on cancellations but reiterated the authorities' commitment to minimizing disruptions.
2 developments
- StrongSecond night of violent Ben Gurion Airport clash over luggage delays, police on scene
- Strong40 US refueling tankers expected at Ben Gurion; domestic flights to Eilat at risk of cancellation
- DevelopingAirports Authority chief warns another US tanker could force flight cancellations at Ben Gurion
- ConfirmedChief of Staff, Air Force Commander criticized over US refueling aircraft causing Ben Gurion traffic jam
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